How do you troubleshoot a microwave oven?

A:

Quick Answer

To troubleshoot a microwave oven, first identify the specific problem affecting its performance. Common microwave oven problems include failure to turn on, failure of the turntable and sparking. Other problems include the failure to heat, faulty timers and malfunctioning control panels.

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First check to ensure that the microwave oven is correctly connected to the power supply. Microwaves may fail to turn on if the power connection is faulty, when the circuit breaker is tripped or if the fuse has malfunctioned. Replacing a faulty fuse can help resolve electricity issues in microwaves. Check to ensure that the microwave door switch is working, because a faulty switch can hamper the microwave's operations. If defective, replace it with the recommended switch, which is available from authorized dealers.

A microwave oven may produce sparks if there are food remains inside the microwave, which owners can clean with the right detergent. A defective fan motor or a broken stirrer belt may also cause similar issues and should be replaced. If the microwave's turntable is not turning, check that it is aligned properly and that there are no food particles under it.

A defective power diode may result in the failure to heat, and replacing it can help resolve this issue. Due to the high risk of electric shock, it is advisable to seek the services of a professional for microwave repair and maintenance.